King Charles shared a friendly first-bump with a West Indies cricketer as the monarch hosted the team at Buckingham Palace over the weekend.
The King participated in a “spud” with two brothers called up for the West Indies, Mikyle and Jeremiah Louis, after being taught some Caribbean hand gestures.
It appeared that the monarch took such pleasure in meeting the team on Saturday, that he was unsure who to support ahead of the West Indies’ first Test match against England on Wednesday.
Team captain Kraigg Brathwaite gave an insight into his conversation with the King: “He said he would probably be supporting the West Indies and we’re very grateful.”
The King participated in a ‘spud” with two brothers called up for the West Indies, Mikyle and Jeremiah Louis, after being taught some Caribbean hand gestures
Getty
The 75-year-old was keen to share his heartfelt condolences with the team after Hurricane Beryl caused devastation across the Caribbean.
His Majesty asked the players how their families were back home and whether they had all made contact.
Brathwaite added: “It was great to meet the King. I told him that the hurricane devastated the islands and caused a great deal of damage and now we’ve got even more to play for to make West Indians proud.
“I said that we want to bring some joy back and put a smile on their face. We want to give people something to cheer for. It’s the least we can do.”
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It appeared that the monarch took such pleasure in meeting the team on Saturday, that he was unsure who to support ahead of the West Indies’ first Test match against England on Wednesday
Getty
The King also expressed his aspirations of having more young people playing cricket in England.
Seam bowler, Jeremiah Louis said: “The King wished us good luck and I hope we put on a good show for the young people.
“He told me he would like to see more youngsters playing cricket in England.”
Charles thanked the team as he was gifted a West Indies team shirt signed by the players.
King Charles joked with the players as he was taught traditional handshakes
PA
He joked, as he touched his back, that he was much too old to wear the shirt competitively.
Pointing to the framed shirt, he laughed: “Break glass in emergency. I’m very touched. I don’t think I deserve this at all.”
Braithwaite said: “The history between the two teams goes way back and to be here, playing England, is great. I told His Majesty we were looking forward to the series.
“I never thought I’d meet the King and it’s good to be here talking to him.”
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